About Mikaela H.

About Mikaela

Indiana University, Jacobs School of Music, Jacobs ScholarBachelor of Music in Violin Performance - 2007-2011

I work with each student to create a personalized experience that will best suit your individual goals and needs. My teaching focuses on providing each student with a solid foundation of technique which is suited to children and adults who wish to play violin as a hobby, but also to those who wish to pursue violin at a professional level. This technique will not only allow you to create the beautiful violin sound you have always dreamed of, but will also do so in a way that is healthy for your body in the long term.

In lessons my students develop skills not only in violin playing, but also in musicianship, music reading, ear training, music theory, leadership, collaboration, and self-discipline.

For beginning student

s, I teach using the suzuki books, however I draw from my many years of experience as a successful performer to supplement this system for long term success. For students who have surpassed the Suzuki level, I teach Russian School technique. My own training is largely Russian school, influenced by Heifetz and modern European tradition.

*** Travel Equipment ***I provide music books for compensation, though I expect students to rent or purchase their own instruments.

...

Reviews

Margot B. May 17, 2016·Violin·In home

Our daughter had her first lesson yesterday and loved it and Mikaela. She said it was the best day ever and can't wait for her next lesson next week! Mikaela obviously has experience teaching children and make our daughter feel at ease and comfortable. Most of the first lesson seemed to be focused on proper instrument and handling, which makes sense. It can take years to undo poor posture and position if not begun correctly. Mikaela explained what she was doing and why, and made sure our daughter understood everything as she went along. Thank you for a first great experience!

Daniel S. August 3, 2014·Violin·In home

Mikaela is not only an excellent musician but an outstanding music teacher, a rare combination. I have been taking violin lessons from her for quite some time now, and I am amazed at how much of a difference she has made in my efforts to pick up the instrument as a total beginner.

She has great observational abilities to immediately notice errors in form or movement, all the while maintaining calm and complete patience. She also has gift for suggesting corrections with analogy and imagery that has been very helpful in my experience.

I would highly recommend her.

Piotr K. July 26, 2014·Violin·In home

From the very first lesson, I was really impressed by how much insight Mikaela could provide for even the (seemingly) simplest phrase or section. She has very deep knowledge about music in general and the mechanics of violin playing in particular.

Every time I perform something for her, she points out each of the hundred things I'm doing wrong. More importantly, she also explains exactly why whatever I'm doing is not working and what steps are necessary to fix it. Her advice is very specific and actionable, and whenever I follow it I notice an improvement.

Despite having my playing constantly destroyed by her remarks, I don't feel discouraged. On the contrary, every lesson leaves me energized and inspired to keep practicing.

View Details

Mikaela H.

View Profile

Mikaela H.

San Francisco, CA 94117

(3)

starting at

$45
/ 30-min

About Crystal S.

Crystal assists students of all ages and reading levels in enhancing their literacy and comprehension.

About Crystal

Crystal brings a lifetime’s experience of professional musicianship to each of her lessons. Born into a family of musicians, she sang her first solo at age 2. She also benefits her students with an extraordinarily diverse musical background, having worked as a vocalist in gospel, country, musical theater, jazz, classical, rock, pop and soul styles. Her performing career has taken her from L.A. church meetings to London’s Houses of Parliament.

Crystal hails originally from Los Angeles, CA - where her musical parents gave her a head start by including her in the family business the moment she was able to contribute. She went on to study classical voice, piano and music theory at The Boston Conservatory of Music. After concluding her studies in London, she returned home and began working regularly as a theater performer, appearing in twen

ty world premiers and re-imagined classics. Most notably she played the lead role of Keely Smith in the big band jazz musical “Louis and Keely: Live At The Sahara” during its eight-month run at Westwood’s Geffen Playhouse. She also formed her own rock band, The Honeysuckle Jones Revival, with whom she performed her own songs all over Los Angeles. And she began working as a studio session vocalist, providing demo vocals for other songwriters, as well as arranging and performing back-up vocals for original artists, including Laura Roppe (currently in the Top Ten on Billboard’s Uncharted list of emerging artists.) Crystal played the lead role of Brooke in the new operatic rock musical “The Burning Opera LA” during its Los Angeles run in 2011 as well as providing ensemble vocals and playing piano and bass. She also performs holiday tunes from the Golden Age of American songwriting with musical quartet The Sleigh Belles.

Crystal believes that music is serious business but that it should be fun. She encourages her students to play music they love, as well as expanding their musical knowledge. She is a firm believer in basics first and emphasizes theory and technique as the tools to support creativity and provide freedom, power and control. She believes effort beats talent every time and the student who practices consistently will see results, whatever their level of ability. Most of all, she believes we were all born to make music.

After 3 or 6 months of consistent lesson attendance and practice, students will have a clear understanding of how their instrument works and how to care for it. They will be able to read basic music notation. They will be working toward clearly defined musical goals and they will have at least three performance pieces learned.

*** Travel Equipment ***I bring a small keyboard for vocal students with no piano, karaoke tracks and a digital recorder. I also bring a selection of games. Students are expected to purchase all necessary books and sheet music.

*** Specialties ***Young beginners (piano)

...

Reviews

Raylene L Lehnhoff November 11, 2015·Singing·Online

Love how she teaches the mechanics of learning to sing properly such as breathing correctly and posture right from the start for a beginner. Fantastic instructor!

Tamura H. September 29, 2013·Singing·

Amazing singng instructor

Crystal has increased my daughterâs self-esteem and expressiveness through song. My daughter is now writing her own poetry and song lyrics, as well as being able to combat her once shyness quality. She loves to perform in front of others now and has a confidence level that amazes me, especially now that she is going into those âteenâ years. I think a lot of thanks needs to go to Crystal, for assisting my daughter in reaching her current creative level!

Tamura H. September 29, 2013·Piano·

Great piano instructor

Crystal is an amazing piano instructor. She is patient, understanding and dedicated. My daughter has learned so much from her. My daughterâs love for music has increased immensely since learning how to play the piano. This would never have been able to be accomplished without Crystalâs professional and caring teaching style.

View Details

Crystal S.

View Profile

Crystal S.

Online

(7)

starting at

$35
/ 30-min

About Dan S.

Former member of the National Honor Society. Received high grades in high school and college courses. Graduated with honors. Currently pursuing a doctorate degree and teaching a variety of subjects I'm passionate about.

About Dan

Dan is an accomplished, multi-disciplinary performer (Singer, Actor, Dancer, Pianist) and is the founder & CEO of Multiviewing; a five-month, life-coaching program providing clients a unique and structured platform for personal and professional development.

Dan has his BA in Communications and Music History & Literature from NC State University and his MPA in Public Administration & Nonprofit Management from Baruch College. He is currently working on his PhD in Integral & Transpersonal Psychology at California Institute of Integral Studies. Dan excels in academia, as well as in multiple facets of the Performing Arts!

Growing up in NC, Dan trained at the Raleigh Conservatory of Music and was the youngest member of the Raleigh Oratorio Society and the North Carolina Master Chorale. He received excellent ratings in piano, vocal and a

cademic competitions, and was awarded the Triangle Theatre Award for Best Actor in a Musical and the North Carolina State University’s Theatre Endowment Award for Best Male Lead.

Dan is an alum of Broadway Theatre Project and the San Francisco Gay Men’s Chorus. He has directed, music directed, choreographed and starred in several theatrical productions and benefit concerts across the country for a variety of national nonprofits. He dreams of owning his own nonprofit healing and performing arts center in San Francisco.

Reviews

Cornelia December 23, 2017·Piano·In home

Dan is a wonderful piano teacher. We are so grateful that he is teaching our 7 year old daughter. After 4 month she is already playing a couple of songs. She feels encouraged to practice and has always a fun time with Dan.
We give the highest ratings and our best recommendations.

Matisse B. November 27, 2017·Piano·In home

Dan arrived 15 minutes early - good sign for the 1st practice !
Matisse (8yrs old) says "he is super good because he explains the notes in a way that I will remember".
I thought Piano lesson would be a drag for Matisse but he is really excited :) Happy Mom !!!

Lena H. October 29, 2017·Dance·In home

Terrific job connecting with my 14 year olds!

View Details

Dan S.

View Profile

Dan S.

San Francisco, CA 94109

(4)

starting at

$50
/ 30-min

About James B.

About James

I have 20 years of experience as a tutor. I have had my own private tutoring business. My area of expertise is math (basic arithmetic to pre-calculus); however, I have tutored in English (grammar and writing), Computer science (Word, Works, Windows OS, and other general computer problems), as well as other subjects. In addition, I also have 15 years of experience working with after school programs both as a tutor and as a recreational instructor. My recreational activities consisted of cheer leading, dance, computer science, graphic design, music (singing), and board games. I have worked with children of all ages.

NOTE: I'm trying to do more online sessions for my students. If you need in-home tutoring please ask before booking and give a the days & hours that work for you. ALSO, I DO NOT DRIVE!!! Please ask about my availabil

Reviews

Pia November 10, 2015·Arithmetic·In studio

James and I worked together for 4 months at an elementary school tutoring 3-5 graders in math and english. James is professional, intelligent, and creative. It was a pleasure working with him. He cares very much for the youth in our community.
We've stayed in touch via email and are developing a friendship I hope lasts a life time. He is good people.

gregory N. October 30, 2015·Singing·In home

james is a good voice instructor with many years of experience to share with you to get you to be the best singer you can be.

Sherita N July 1, 2015·Study Skills·In studio

James is an excellent instructor that has tremendous amount of patience with the most difficult students. He is also very skillful in academics especially English and language arts. He has the unquie ability to break the assignment or steps down for the student to learn on his/her individual level! A great pleasure to work beside him !

View Details

James B.

View Profile

James B.

Alameda, CA 94501

(4)

starting at

$25
/ 60-min

About Julia A.

I tutor students from grade school through college, and help them get ahead of the program and stand out from their peers in subjects such as chemistry (first year and organic), mathematics (algebra, calculus, vector calculus, and differential equations), physics (classical Newtonian, modern, and electromagnetism), and English essay writing skills.

About Julia

Hi! My name is Julia A. I have been tutoring students of all ages and skill levels at learning centers, colleges, libraries and schools since 2008.

My instruction extends nationwide, with students from all corners of the US, utilizing online tutoring services such as Skype.

My main field of study is in MATH (trig, algebra, geometry, precalculus), CHEMISTRY (high school and college), and PHYSICS (high school and college).

I completed my Bachelors in Physics and Mathematics Education at Hunter University and have gained experience with both in-person and online group instruction and curriculum development.

Some examples of the students I have tutored are: Elementary school students preparing for State competitions and exams; High school and College students in preparance for entrance exams, and in subjects such as algebra, geom

etry, trig, precalc, chemistry and physics.

I do Regents and SAT/ACT prep for these subjects as well as the GRE (These are NYS based High School Preparatory Exams - do not hesitate to ask should you need assistance with the ones offered in your state/country).

In addition, I am thorough and meticulous, by paying special attention to how the student grasps information and retains it, I prepare individualized handwritten reviews, with supplemental material found online and in texts.

I assign homework to keep my students ahead of what is going on in class, and a visual and intuitive understanding of the concepts I present is important to me, so I use visual aids (diagrams and interactive models) to help my students integrate what they learn with me in real life situations.

My instruction includes:1. Tutoring based on the school curriculum2. Instruction on the home-schooling curriculum3. Assisting those with a gap in going back to school/university.

I start with an assessment based on what the student has trouble with or last remembers covering in school, and prepare material going from there.

As a result, my students all have improved grades without any need for cramming before tests, and I encourage a stress-free and easygoing learning environment.

My lessons are fun and enthusiastic - these subjects are beautiful and will help open your mind to new ways of thinking - whatever your field of study!

...

Reviews

Elizabeth A. December 12, 2017·Chemistry·Online

Julia was very organized and well informed about chemistry. She was so much help. I would definitely use her again.

Oleg September 19, 2017·Math·Online

Great help to our 9y.o., who is exploring math. Clear explanation, additional materials, and a nice memo after each lesson. Thank you! Will do again!

Kate July 27, 2017·Algebra·Online

Julia creates her own curriculum which is better than anything my daughters receive in their schools.
I see marked improvements in their grades for this past year, and my eldest is actually skipping fourth grade as a result of lessons. I am astounded as to my girls' progress, and greatly appreciative of our tutor's expertise.
Her patient, methodical approach to teaching is why I see us remaining with her for all of our educational instruction. She has already taught arithmetic to my youngest (3rd grade), and algebra to my eldest (starting 5th this sept!), and is proceeding with more advanced math with no issue whatsoever. I cannot recommend her enough.

View Details

Julia A.

View Profile

Julia A.

Online

(9)

starting at

$33
/ 20-min

View More

View Previous

About Matthew F.

Confused about Shakespeare? what about modern english literature? or just starting to learn how to read? I can explain all this to you and get your brain going on any book, poem, short story, or basic reading to assist you with your studies!

About Matthew

Hello!

My name is Matthew, and I teach many people of different ages academic topics from arithmetic to algebra 2/trigonometry, science, reading/grammar, as well as all kinds of music and instruments!

I hold a Masters of Arts in Music Composition from Mills College in Oakland, CA and a Bachelor of Arts in Music from UC Santa Cruz.

Musically, I specialize in drum set and percussion, piano, voice, and guitar instruction (4 and 6 string) woodwinds, brass, and violin family strings. I have been teaching in Walnut Creek at my home studio/office for 10 years, worked with local schools such as Walnut Creek Intermediate, Meher School, Las Lomas High School, and Stanley Middle School.

Some basic pedagogical ideas:

I make sure each student learns the necessary techniques, rhythms as well as reading and performing skills that each p

layer must posses on their instrument or voice to properly play the instrument. Alongside this crucial, ever-lasting quest to have a good sound and play the repertoire of the instrument I teach many other aspects of music that most students indulge in as they progress. These including but not limited to ear-training, improvising, composition, theory, music history and appreciation, transcribing, arranging and performing popular music, basic tracking and recording/computer compositions, as well as basic singing and drumming. Each student has different goals and interests that draw them toward certain aspects of music. My goal is to supplement the basic music training while offering guidance in more complex areas of music that bring excitement and enjoyment to learning. I work with each student to find not only what aspects of music they are interested in but also what styles and groups they enjoy and aspire to play or just enjoying listening or singing along. Balancing all of this during a 30-60 min lesson and then during your practice time in the week can be tough, so I work with each student to set priorities and goals based on their interest and skill and follow through with them!

Here are a few of my BASIC POLICIES; please read so you can know if we will be a good fit. If you have any questions about them feel free to ask, but I rarely make exceptions!

-I only accept students (usually) who have already started reading

-All students and parents must be on a fairly flexible schedule and reply to phone calls or texts on the day of lessons. With 30+ concurrent students and families, schedules are constantly changing to accommodate each other. If it works for everyone to help another student out by switching, then I will request that of you, but I ALWAYS GUARANTEE YOUR SCHEDULED LESSON TIME.

-I always guarantee your full lesson time. I ask that each student (unless previously noted) keeps 10-15 minutes before and after their lesson free in case of an unexpected delay or cancellation.

- I require AT LEAST 72 HOURS ADVANCED NOTICE FOR RESCHEDULES. If you need to reschedule then I prefer knowing a week in advance. IF YOU CANCEL WITHIN 72 HOURS I DO NOT GUARANTEE A MAKEUP SPOT.

If you are at all interested for yourself or your child please don't hesitate to call and ask questions.

Have a great day!

...

Reviews

Sam Maldonado January 11, 2016·Composition·In studio

great time at my first lesson

Denise S. October 31, 2015·Viola·In studio

My daughter took lessons with Matthew for 5 months and we are severely disappointed. We originally switched because he was constantly changing the days/times of our lesson to accommodate his schedule or that of new clients, which is a terrible way to do business. However, after having one lesson with a new teacher, we realized that my daughter never learned the basics of viola playing - how to hold the instrument properly, how tightly the bow should be strung, the names of the parts of the instrument, etc. He also rented us an instrument that didn't tune properly at twice the cost of what local music stores were charging. She also was not properly measured for that instrument, which I learned was standard. Since I am not musically trained, I went on faith that she was being taught properly. After the first lesson with a teacher who actually knew what they were doing, my daughter was in tears over all the things she didn't know. I feel like all those basics should have been covered in the first month of instruction. In addition, his bio states that he has been teaching for 10 years. At his current age, that would mean he started teaching at the age of 13 or 14. I'm very disappointed in our experience with both this instructor and with Take Lessons for not vetting their instructors properly.

Adriana September 25, 2015·Violin·In home

It was excellent. He has the patience and the knowledge. I do recommend him.

View Details

Matthew F.

View Profile

Matthew F.

Walnut Creek, CA 94595

(5)

starting at

$45
/ 30-min

About Marcel M.

I can teach reading in English as well as in German, my native language.

About Marcel

I work as a tutor and mentor in many of those fields for years. It was and is a side business, but I always enjoyed teaching.I am looking forward to move on with you and / or your kids.Have a great day,Marcel

Update 02/10/15: Takelessons is a great way to teach and a fantastic and easy way to learn for students. I currently have 3 students per week, with several hours. I really enjoy it, either online via Skype or Facetime or Live at the students place. Hit me up and let's move something together.

...

Reviews

Ems H. July 2, 2017·Mixed Martial Arts·In home

I did not actually take any lessons with him, but his schedule did not reflect what showed as available in Takelessons. He had a very bad attitude and would not actually schedule the lesson after several exchanges.

Andy June 2, 2017·German·Online

I need to improve my spoken German for business and Marcel has been invaluable in helping me improve at a good pace while being incredibly flexible on lesson planning.

I've been working with him for about a month now and I've grown to feel more comfortable speaking with my colleagues who are native German speakers.

If you want a native, professional teacher who can be fun...Marcel is your guy.

Thia S. January 22, 2017·Microsoft Word·In home

Marcel is a great teacher, solved all my complicated issues and answered every question with advanced knowledge. He's patient and has a light humorous way of making you feel smart when you need it most!

Marcel M.

Marcel M.

About Melissa M.

Lessons would be individualized to focus on areas that need the most guidance.

About Melissa

I have been teaching since 2006 on a variety of topics. I graduated with an BA from the University of Wisconsin. My degree is in History with and emphasis on East Asian history.

I've taught all age groups from age 2 up to retirees. My teaching experience includes one-on-one and group classes in a variety of settings. I've taught corporate classes, private lessons, small groups, and traditional classroom lessons.

We have a student-centric philosophy of learning. Lessons are generally relaxed and designed to work towards accomplishing student determined goals. While all students will study similar fundamentals regarding technique, theory, and performance, every lesson is as different as every person. Special focus on topics like music theory, self-accompaniment, composition, song writing, and home recording are available as well.

What are your personal goals? We'll tell you what you need to do to get there, and help you take the steps to achieve your aspirations.

Lessons with small children are more focused on just having fun while developing a good musical foundation, but we prefer for them to have as much personal ownership of their lesson as possible.

...

Reviews

Marla November 9, 2017·Ukulele·In studio

Melissa is a wonderful teacher. She is very patient. She ensures that I understand the fundamentals. It has been a very enjoyable and educational experience.

Recent Reading Articlesfrom the Blog

Whether you're just starting out or a seasoned pro,
check out the Reading articles on our blog.

Summer is the perfect time to get lost in a good book. Why not choose a book that will help you see the world in a new way and revitalize your creative spirit? Whether you're packing a book in your beach bag or toting an e-reader in your carry-on, these 5 good summer books are guaranteed to pack inspiration and creativity into the dog days of summer!
1. On Looking: Eleven Walks with Expert Eyes
Sometimes the best way to awaken your creative side is by looking at familiar things in a diffe …
Read More

5 Inspiring Books to Read for a More Creative Summer

Summer is the perfect time to get lost in a good book. Why not choose a book that will help you see the world in a new way and revitalize your creative spirit? Whether you're packing a book in your beach bag or toting an e-reader in your carry-on, these 5 good summer books are guaranteed to pack inspiration and creativity into the dog days of summer!
1. On Looking: Eleven Walks with Expert Eyes
Sometimes the best way to awaken your creative side is by looking at familiar things in a diffe

3 Must-Read Books for Every Child's Reading List

Need some reading ideas? Before you head to the library, check out some of the best children's books in this guest post by New Milford, NJ tutor Matthew H...
&nbsp;
Childrens books are a great way to establish good habits that kids will take with them throughout their lives. Reading not only helps develop strong vocabulary, but also makes it easier to learn new information and retain already existing material. Finding the right book for your child may seem like a difficult process because

The Benefits of Reading Aloud With Your Child (and How to Get the Most Out of It)

How important is reading aloud to children? Here, Chicago tutor Galen B. reviews the benefits and some helpful tips...
Whether your child is not yet talking or is working on chapter books, reading aloud with her is a valuable exercise. According to the U.S. Department of Education, reading aloud to children is the single most important activity for building knowledge and eventual success.1 It introduces vocabulary and word-sound association, which builds the foundation for literacy. It

5 Fun Summer Reading Programs for Kids

Are your kids itching for summer break? In between summer camps and vacations, don't forget to encourage your little one to stretch their imagination and explore the world of books! Read on as online tutor Natalie S. shares her recommendations...
Instilling a love of books in your child can be a difficult task for parents. Life is full of daily distractions that often take us away from the simple act of reading. School, work, afterschool activities, and the carpool lane; it all gets in

Breaking Bad Reading | Reading Comprehension Practice

Struggling with reading assignments? This reading comprehension practice exercise may seem a bit strange, but it works! Read on as Tucson, AZ and online tutor Lourdes C. explains the "breaking bad reading" method...
&nbsp;
The most fundamental challenge most students face is not in the content, it's in bad reading habits. The layout of most text in the Western world is linear, following a progressive line of reasoning and logical thought from beginning to end without diversion (which i